Birmingham, often referred to as England's "Second City," is renowned for its rich industrial heritage and vibrant cultural scene. Known as the "City of a Thousand Trades," it was the world's first manufacturing town and played a pivotal role during the Industrial Revolution. Today, Birmingham is celebrated for its diverse culinary landscape, including the famous Balti Triangle, and its significant contributions to music, being the birthplace of heavy metal bands like Black Sabbath and Judas Priest. The city also boasts more canals than Venice, offering picturesque walks and a unique charm.
In addition to its industrial and cultural achievements, Birmingham is home to several iconic landmarks such as the Bullring shopping centre, the historic Jewellery Quarter, and Cadbury World, where visitors can indulge in the city's sweet legacy. The city's dynamic arts scene is highlighted by institutions like the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, which houses the world's largest collection of Pre-Raphaelite art.
Amidst this backdrop of historical and cultural richness lies the West Midlands Police Museum on Steelhouse Lane. This fascinating museum, located in a Victorian lock-up that was operational from 1891 until 2016, offers a unique glimpse into the history of policing in Birmingham. Visitors can explore the old cells, learn about the city's most notorious criminals, and even try on police uniforms, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in the intriguing history of law enforcement in the region.
From the moment you step through the front entrance, you are transported back in time. The original police lamp and ornate iron bars on the windows of this Victorian building set the scene perfectly.
The museum is housed in the original police lock-up building, which was operational from 1891 and served as a police cell block for over a century. The entrance, featuring the original signing-in desk, offers a choice: explore on your own or join one of the regularly held events. While the building has been refurbished for public access, all fixtures and fittings, including the cells, remain original.
Throughout the museum, informative boards inside and outside the cells guide you through the history of the West Midlands Police, from its beginnings as Birmingham City Police to the closure of the lock-up in 2016. You can even experience what it was like to be in one of those cells, complete with a wooden bed and a corner toilet!
The museum boasts a collection of historical police artifacts, including old uniforms, equipment, and documents. Visitors can even handle some of the more inventive items that were ‘taken into custody.’
One fascinating story is that of Evelyn Miles, the first female police officer, who joined the force in 1917 at the age of 50 and retired at 72. Evelyn, married to a police officer who became too unwell to work, was offered a job as ‘matron’ at the lock-up by the progressive Chief Constable, Sir Charles Haugton Rafter. Her role was to support female prisoners and their children during court appearances, marking the beginning of careers for women in the police force. By 1924, the number of women in the force had grown, as shown in a photograph from that year.
The museum has gained additional interest due to its connection with the television series, Peaky Blinders. Exhibits related to the real-life Peaky Blinders gang, who operated in Birmingham in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, provide a glimpse into the criminal underworld of that time. You can also see mugshots of other criminals brought into the lock-up.
One of the most exciting aspects of a visit here is the interactive exhibits. Visitors can try on police uniforms, sit in a vintage police car, and even participate in a mock trial. These exhibits offer a hands-on experience of what it was like to be a police officer in different eras, while also showcasing modern policing methods.
The museum also highlights the role of the police in the community, with exhibits dedicated to stories of bravery and service, including the police’s involvement in major events like the Birmingham Blitz during World War II.
This small but well-thought-out museum is definitely worth a visit, offering plenty for both children and adults to explore.
For more information:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oFQYcW3mqzg
The Lock Up,
40 Steel House Lane ,
Birmingham,
West Midlands B4 6BJ
United Kingdom
School Term Time:
Please check dates we are closed below.
School Holidays; 20th July – 1st September:
During Birmingham school summer holidays we are open 7 days a week with exceptions.*
Last entry at 2pm
*Please note that Blue Light Card, Student, or Carer discount is for cardholders only and cards must be shown on entry.
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Wendy is based in the UK and is an English teacher but with industrial tendencies and a particular love of the ‘isms’ that formed in the 1910s! She writes her own art blog: Travels with my Art: exploring art: one gallery, one artist, one country at a time!